Airportfest heats up

Since AOPA Aviation Summit is focused on all things aviation, one can’t attend without heading to Peter O. Knight airport and attending Airportfest, the new and improved aircraft display area.

So far thousands of attendees have browsed the more than 100 airplanes parked around the ramp in front of Atlas Aviation. Located just south of downtown Tampa, and right off the water, Peter O. Knight is a great venue for the exhibitors and attendees.

For those who came to AOPA Aviation Summit looking to buy, numerous manufacturers brought demo aircraft, making the journey from browsing to experience only a short walk.

From the buyer to the nonpilot, there is something for everyone. Aircraft introductory rides are available through Atlas Aviation for only $70 to commemorate AOPA’s seventieth anniversary. That’s all taking place at AOPA’s Learn to Fly booth at Airportfest, which is complete with a Frasca flight training device.

AOPA Aviation Summit is also unique in the way many attendees arrive at the convention—by air. So far more than 520 airplanes have flown in for the event. Peter O. Knight and Tampa Executive airports are hosting aircraft for the event, with convenient shuttle access dropping attendees right in front of the convention center.

There are sound financial reasons for aircraft ownership. Beyond the money saved on overnight trips, delays caused by airlines, and other miscellaneous expenses, owning an airplane has definite tax advantages.